Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

So often, the tag of "Special Edition" comes with a not-so-special price increase. Fortunately for Subaru fans, the newly-introduced Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is actually less costly. At $32,995 it's actually $2,000 cheaper than the base price of the standard STI.

Of course, buyers of the Special Edition will have to go without certain features, namely HID headlights, premium audio, and automatic climate control. It's not just a de-contented package, though, as the car also comes with the suspension from the spec C model in Japan that includes a thicker rear stabilizer bar, stiffer bushings and stiffer springs.

Initially, each car will be painted in Aspen white with the charcoal-colored 14-spoke wheels also cribbed from the spec C. Just 125 examples will be built in the first quarter of 2010, although Subaru says that more will be available later in the year in additional colors. High-res gallery below, pricing press release available after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive

LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 subaru2010 subaru impreza wrx sti2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition2010 subaru STI2010 subaru wrx2010 subaru WRX STI2010Subaru2010SubaruImprezaWrxSti2010SubaruImprezaWrxStiSpecialEdition2010SubaruSti2010SubaruWrx2010SubaruWrxSti2011 subaru wrxla 2009la auto showla showLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSpec CSpecCsti special editionStiSpecialEditionSubaruSubaru ImprezaSubaru Impreza WRXSubaru Impreza WRX Limited EditionSubaru Impreza WRX STISubaru Impreza WRX STI Special EditionSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxSubaruImprezaWrxLimitedEditionSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruImprezaWrxStiSpecialEditionwrxwrx stiWRX STI Spec cwrx sti special editionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEditionThu, 03 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Subaru WRX STI Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

For U.S. Subaru enthusiasts, it has long seemed like the folks at Fuji Heavy forgot that we might be interested in special-edition WRX models too. New hotted-up variants of the all-wheel-drive hero car have been released in the UK and elsewhere on what seems like a monthly basis, but here in the States, we've largely done without. Thankfully, at last there is just such a U.S. model in the pipeline, and it's headed for the LA Auto Show.

The the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition starts by utilizing the suspension package form the JDM WRX STI Spec C (1mm thicker rear antisway bar, stiffer springs and more robust rear subframe bushings), and the model also inherits the charcoal 18 x 8.5-inch 14-spoke alloys from that car as well.

Interestingly, the Special Edition is decontented somewhat. Unlike the standard U.S. STI, the SE makes do with a downgraded stereo (single-disc CD/four speakers versus six-disc/10 speakers), manual HVAC controls, conventional halogen headlamps, and indicator-free side mirrors. It isn't immediately clear if this change in specification helps shave any weight, but the smaller stereo alone probably helps the car drop a few pounds.

Subaru says it plans to initially offer the Special Edition in a limited run of 125 units this Spring, all painted Aspen White. Later in 2010, the Special Edition will become a normal production model available in other colors. Pricing has not yet been released, but if you're at all interested in one of the first 125 examples, we'd suggest getting on a list with your local dealer now. Check out the full press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Subaru WRX STI Special Edition


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms

LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2008LosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesAutoShow2008ScoobySpecial EditionSpecialEditionSubaruSubaru WRXSubaruWrxSubieWRXWRX STiWRX STI Spec CWRX STI Special EditionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEditionTue, 24 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Subaru version of Toyota FT-86 to be bigger, get substantially more power, AWD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/rumormill-subaru-version-of-toyota-ft-86-to-be-bigger-get-subs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/rumormill-subaru-version-of-toyota-ft-86-to-be-bigger-get-subs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/rumormill-subaru-version-of-toyota-ft-86-to-be-bigger-get-subs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Toyota FT-86 Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

While most sports car fans everywhere are waiting with bated breath for the new Toyota FT-86 to arrive from the Land of the Rising Sun, some of us are a little bit more excited about the car's Subaru cousin. Why is that, especially considering that the FT-86 appears to be kinda just what the doctor ordered (rear-wheel drive, 200 horsepower, light, cheap)? Well, for one thing, Subarus are all-wheel drive. And while rear-wheel driven sports cars definitely have their charms (earlier rumors even suggested that Fuji Heavy (i.e. Subaru) was even caving and going rear-drive with its version of the Toyobaru), there's really little in life as fun as blasting down a gravel road at a seemingly unsafe clip while kicking up mountainous clouds of dust. Plus, you know, rain and all that.

Then there's the engine. Our pals at Inside Line are reporting that the Subaru iteration of the FT-86 will have more power - 250 hp according to them. Using Jeremy Clarkson-style logic, 250 hp is better than 200 hp. Because it's more. IL claims that the Toyobaru will use a version of the just-developed-for-the-FT-86 flat-four 2.0-liter engine - supposedly naturally aspirated like in the FT-86.

But here's the thing - the smallest engine Subaru offers American consumers these days is a 2.5-liter boxer. And that motor, turbo-tuned for WRX duty, makes 265 hp (though we've driven it and we'd wager it kicks out a bit more than that). Why would Subaru put a smaller, weaker engine into a $30,000 coupe ($30,000 according to the IL article) than the motor they stick in the $25,000 WRX? Exactly -we don't think they would.

Inside Line also says the Subaru version will be larger than the Toyota car because of a "stretched platform." We're not sure if that means longer or wider - or both - but we'd err on the side of longer, as in more backseat room. What we're looking at then, is a big-ish, AWD coupe with a lot of power. Can you say 2011 SVX? We knew you could.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Toyota FT-86 Concept


[Source: Inside Line]

Rumormill: Subaru version of Toyota FT-86 to be bigger, get substantially more power, AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FT-86SubaruSubaru CoupeSubaru SVXSubaru WRXSubaruCoupeSubaruSvxSubaruWrxsubiyotaSVXToyobaruToyotaToyota FT-86ToyotaFt-86WRXWed, 18 Nov 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru-based TRAX STI is an alpine badass]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/video-ken-blocks-subaru-based-trax-sti-is-an-alpine-badass/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/video-ken-blocks-subaru-based-trax-sti-is-an-alpine-badass/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/video-ken-blocks-subaru-based-trax-sti-is-an-alpine-badass/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Ken Block's Subaru WRX STI-based snow tank - Click above watch the video


Yes, that's probably the first ever Subaru tank. We can't say for certain, but I think in this case we can go ahead and assume. Driven by none other then Ken "Gymkhana" Block. Why does it exist? To be the "ultimate backcountry shred car," of course. We think what that actually means is that you'll be able to not only access rather remote sections of your favorite mountain in the TRAX STI, but get there quickly and confidently, while performing any matter of black diamond stunts along the way.

Being skiers and not snowboarders (ahem), the part that really interests up is what lies beneath. And we're happy to say in the case of the TRAX STI, quite a lot. The snow beast begins life as just another Ken Block-prepped open class WRX STI rally car. It's then sent to Vermont SportsCar where the power is upped to 400 hp, EXE-TC Group N dampers are fitted to all four corners and (obviously, duh) the wheels are ripped off and replaced with cat tracks. There's also a four person sleigh (not shown in the video) that can haul four boarders plus their gear up a mountain. Says Block:
It combines a two of my favorite things in life: driving a rally car in the snow and snowboarding in the powder in the backcountry. It's incredibly fun having the ability to push the high-power Subaru on the slopes and to backcountry spots that normal cars could never go!
We're just hoping that at some point old Kenny boy will give us a slushy hot lap or two. And be sure to check out 0-60's interview with Ken where the famed rally driver delves into more of his snow mania. Full press release explaining the madness behind the TRAX STI after the jump.


Gallery: Ken Block Subaru TRAX STI

Continue reading VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru-based TRAX STI is an alpine badass

VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru-based TRAX STI is an alpine badass originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gymkhanaKen BlockKenBlocksnow carSnowCarSubaru TRAX STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaruTraxStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStiTRAX STITraxStiVermont SportsCarVermontSportscarWRXWRX STIwrx sti snowWrxStiWrxStiSnowMon, 02 Nov 2009 20:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

1969 Subaru 360 SPT Delivery Van -- Click above image for high-res gallery

SEMA is just around the corner and aside from the inevitable Camaro riot that will be taking place in the convention center's parking lot, many auto folks are showing up with tuned rides. Like, for instance, Subaru. SPT is Subaru's in house tuning division and they're cooking up three nifty cars to put on display, each one better than the next.

First up is the WRX STI by SPT designed to demonstrate, "what a WRX STI owner can build at home using just the SPT catalog as a source for bolt-on parts." It's got ten more ponies (315, up from the stock STI's 305 hp), big old gold wheels, and special springs, sway bars and a lower chassis brace. Surely nice, but nothing new.

In Tokyo, it's all about "bippu," which is JDM for VIP. As such, Subaru has gone ahead and built a Legacy 2.5GT VIP for big ballers everywhere. What sets it apart? Well, for one thing, bippu means going low. To facilitate this, the top mounted Subaru intercooler is removed and replaced with a Mishimoto front-mounted intercooler to make room for the custom engine bay cover. But you got to go lower than that -- so the Legacy VIP gets air suspension to really kiss the ground. There's a whole bunch more, too, including Shinjuku Black Plum paint and the pleated leather interior.

But, the car we're really excited about is the van. Yeah man, a 1969 Subaru 360 delivery van to be precise. An honest to goodness microcar! Ten feet long. Four feet wide. Two-cylinder, two-stroke 25-hp engine. Suicide front doors -- and it's being fully restored as an SPT parts delivery van. But here's the cool part for those of you not making it out to SEMA -- the SPT parts van will tour the country going from dealership to dealership. Have you ever seen anything so close to perfection in your life? Didn't think so. Big old press release, after the jump.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Subaru Preview


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van

SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Legacy VIPLegacyVipMicrocarMicrocarsSPTSTISubaruSubaru 360Subaru 360 VanSubaru LegacySubaru Legacy 2.5GTSubaru Legacy 2.5GT VIPSubaru Legacy VIPSubaru360Subaru360VanSubaruLegacySubaruLegacy2.5gtSubaruLegacy2.5gtVipSubaruLegacyVipWRXWRX STI by SPTWrxStiBySptFri, 30 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered for Your Pleasure: Subaru WRX-powered Kickboxer motorcycle concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rendered-for-your-pleasure-subaru-wrx-powered-kickboxer-motorcy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rendered-for-your-pleasure-subaru-wrx-powered-kickboxer-motorcy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rendered-for-your-pleasure-subaru-wrx-powered-kickboxer-motorcy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

KickBoxer motorcycle concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's a longstanding tradition of using horizontally-opposed boxer engines in motorcycles - and not just from BMW - the flat configuration has found a home in a slew of two-wheelers ranging from Russia's Ural to the current Honda Goldwing. So, it's not too much of a stretch to wonder how Subaru's well-known flat-four engine would work in a bike.

At least one man has decided to find out. According to The Kneeslider, Ian McElroy taught himself Solidworks just so he could create the KickBoxer motorcycle concept, which marries the aforementioned liquid-cooled boxer engine from Subaru to a futuristic motorcycle chassis that features single-sided swingarms front and rear along with hub-center steering.

We're not entirely sold on some of the details, but it sure looks like fun. Even a bone-stock turbocharged WRX powerplant should equal a rather favorable power-to-weight ratio, wouldn't you say? At this point, the KickBoxer exists only on paper and computer files, but McElroy says he'd love to see the machine put into small-scale production. As would we.

Check out our high-res gallery below, and for more images, click here.


Gallery: KickBoxer Motorcycle Concept


[Source: The Kneeslider, Flickr]

Rendered for Your Pleasure: Subaru WRX-powered Kickboxer motorcycle concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxer engineboxer motorBoxerEngineBoxerMotorflat-fourian mcelroyIanMcelroykickboxerkickboxer motorcyclekickboxer motorcycle conceptKickboxerMotorcycleKickboxerMotorcycleConceptsubarusubaru motorcycleSubaruMotorcyclewrxwrx motorcycleWrxMotorcycleTue, 27 Oct 2009 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon doesn't make sense]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-carbon-doesnt-make-sense/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-carbon-doesnt-make-sense/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-carbon-doesnt-make-sense/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX STI Carbon - Click above for high-res image gallery

Subaru has announced a new version of the WRX STI that will debut at the Tokyo Motor Show. We've looked at this one six ways 'til Sunday (maybe seven) and we still can't make sense of it. But, hear us out. One of the main knocks against the STI has long been that it's a little too porky. But, when you base a performance car on a plebeian chassis, that's the price you pay. Another knock is that the STI - while potent - is just not as hardcore as the Mitsubishi EVO, even though the EVO X is a little, well, less hardcore than the EVO IX. So obviously Subaru's going to address these concerns with a special, lightweight edition STI, right? Well...

Meet the WRX STI Carbon. It has a carbon fiber roof. And a five-speed automatic transmission borrowed from the Legacy - no manual. And... suede seats. Yup, that's it. Now, we like the roof, don't get us wrong. Removing weight and lowering the center of gravity is exactly what the STI needs. But, a slushbox? For reals? Subaru says the five-speed auto is there to offer, "distinctive driving pleasure to a wider range of customers." Ah, the old dumbing it down so you can sell more trick. Hey, it worked for Porsche (see: Cayenne).

Let's see here, the last time Subaru tried this maneuver was in 2008 with the GE/GH third generation WRX. That went so well that Subaru was forced to relaunch the car twelve months later and rename to the 2008 WRX as the auto-only 2.5 GT. In other words, we just don't get the STI Carbon. Maybe in a year's time, Subaru will be forced to rename it the Carbon GT. That would at least make some sense. Right?


Gallery: Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon

Continue reading Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon doesn't make sense

Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon doesn't make sense originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 01:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Tokyo2009 Tokyo Auto Show2009Tokyo2009TokyoAutoShowSTISTI CarbonStiCarbonSubaruSubaru 2.5 GTSubaru STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaru WRX STI CarbonSubaru2.5GtSubaruStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStiSubaruWrxStiCarbonTokyoWRXWRX STI CarbonWrxStiCarbonWed, 30 Sep 2009 01:29:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 X Games Rally Car ride along]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/2009-x-games-rally-car-ride-along/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/2009-x-games-rally-car-ride-along/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/2009-x-games-rally-car-ride-along/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 X Games Rally Car ride along - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've never been given a "hot lap" by a professional driver, let me try and convey what the experience is like. You're usually dehydrated and have been standing on a heat-soaked paddock for far too long. There's a track rat (or two) whose job it is to get a helmet and HANS device fastened on you and their default thinking is that you've never even seen a track before, much less driven on one. You're wearing your street clothes, and items like your wallet and cell phone make it even harder for them to get you shoehorned and belted into the seat. The passenger seats are typically much narrower than the driver's seat and you're typically much fatter than the driver. It can be pretty embarrassing. Once you're secured, the driver sticks his hand out, you shake it and then you're off.

Follow the jump to find out what happens next.


Gallery: 2009 X Games Rally Car ride along

subarufordxgames000subarufordxgames001subarufordxgames002subarufordxgames003subarufordxgames004

Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading 2009 X Games Rally Car ride along

2009 X Games Rally Car ride along originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Ford Fiesta2009 Ford Fiesta Rally car2009 Ford Fiesta Rallycross2009 Subaru WRX STI2009 X Games2009FordFiesta2009FordFiestaRallyCar2009FordFiestaRallycross2009SubaruWrxSti2009XGamesDave MirraDaveMirrafeaturedFiestaFiesta Rally Carfiesta rallycrossFiestaRallyCarFiestaRallycrossFordford fiestaFord Fiesta Rally CarFord Fiesta WRCFordFiestaFordFiestaRallyCarFordFiestaWrcimprezaKen BlockKenBlockKenny BrackKennyBrackOpen ClassOpen Class SubaruOpen Class Subaru WRX STIOpenClassOpenClassSubaruOpenClassSubaruWrxStiRallySTISubarusubaru imprezaSubaru WRX STISubaruImprezaSubaruWrxStiTanner FoustTannerFoustTravis PastranaTravisPastranaWRXWRX STIWrxStiX Gamesx games rallyXGamesXGamesRallyFri, 31 Jul 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Lars Martensson's Subaru Impreza WRX STI concept - click above for a high-res gallery

It's fair to say that Subaru has enjoyed a run of strong product in recent years, as well as an exponential credibility increase in enthusiast's eyes, essentially ever since the automaker began shipping over the Impreza WRX back in 2001. Those considerable achievements aside, it's likewise fair to say that Subaru has yet to well-and-truly crack the aesthetics portion of the modern carbuilding equation, having produced some daring (if ungainly) entries like the origina B9 Tribeca and a series of aggressive yet unpretty Impreza variants. And while we applaud originality, we think the folks at Fuji Heavy Industries could use a consistent design force, a man (or woman) with a mission that's out in the public eye as something of a known quantity. Think: General Motors' Ed Welburn, former Mazda-turned-Tesla wunderkind Franz von Holzhausen, former BMW lightning rod Chris Bangle, etc.

All of this is not to say that the man behind the WRX STI rally car renderings shown here has the answers, but we know one thing: When passing these images around Autoblog's (virtual) offices, we all couldn't help but say something to the effect of: "Oooooh, damn that's hot!" - a phrase we can't remember associating with Subaru, much as we love driving the vehicles themselves. In any case, these images come courtesy of one Lars Martensson (apparently better known on the interwebs by his handle 'GRID)', a man who spends his days crafting 3D renderings for videogames (Rallisport Challenge 2 for xBox, Battlefield 2 for PC). To us, this Swede has a handle on what the STI needs to be: Squat, mean, and purposeful. Okay, so perhaps the cut-down greenhouse wouldn't leave much room for taller folks (much less a helmet), but if one of these were parked in our driveway, well... we'd happily squat a little.

Check out the high-res image gallery below, and click on the jump for the video.


Gallery: Martensson Subaru WRX STI Concept


[Source: 3dluvr.com via Jalopnik]

Continue reading Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO]

Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battlefield 2Battlefield2Fuji HeavyFujiHeavyImprezaImprezzaRallisport challengeRallisportChallengerenderingSTISubaruSubieWRCWRXWRX STIWrxStiWed, 27 May 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Driven: Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and WRX STI with SPT mods]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/driven-subaru-wrx-and-sti-with-spt-mods/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/driven-subaru-wrx-and-sti-with-spt-mods/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/driven-subaru-wrx-and-sti-with-spt-mods/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and STI with SPT mods - Click above for high-res image gallery

Subaru invited us out to the track to sample some of its Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) components, fitted to the company's Forester XTI show car, as well as the Impreza WRX and STI models. While we applaud any manufacturer that engineers a line of factory-approved aftermarket parts, we hand out additional kudos to the few who welcome us to a local racing circuit to put them to the fire. What add-ons did Subaru bring to Willow Springs, and how did they perform on the track? Come with us to find out...


Gallery: Subaru WRX with SPT


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc., Subaru North America

Continue reading Driven: Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and WRX STI with SPT mods

Driven: Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and WRX STI with SPT mods originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfirst driveFirstDriveSPTSTISubaruSubaru ImprezaSubaru Impreza STISubaru Impreza WRXSubaru Performance TuningSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaStiSubaruImprezaWrxSubaruPerformanceTuningWRXFri, 24 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru campaigning Impreza STI at Nurburgring 24-hour race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/subaru-campaigning-impreza-sti-at-nurburgring-24-hour-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/subaru-campaigning-impreza-sti-at-nurburgring-24-hour-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/subaru-campaigning-impreza-sti-at-nurburgring-24-hour-race/#commentsFiled under: ,


Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Nurburgring) - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Subaru has announced its participation in the 37th ADAC Zurich 24-Hour Race (AKA the 24-Hours of Nurburgring) with a Subaru Technica International-modified Impreza STI. The WRX will be campaigning in the SP3T class (comprised of turbo'd cars with a displacement of 2.0 liters), with Kazuo Shimizu, Toshihiro Yoshida, Naoki Hattori and Koji Matsuda manning the helm during the enduro.

According to Subaru, the team's objective is to "collect data and verify technical know-how" and use the knowledge it gleans from the race to improve the STI's development. The modifications are standard race-car fare, with a stripped interior and safety equipment, along with a number of body stiffening components and a "Flexible Tower Bar."

Subaru's set up a micro-site to track the team's progress and will supposedly have live timing and results when the event gets underway in May. Press release below the fold.


Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Nurburgring)


[Source: Subaru via WCF]

Continue reading Subaru campaigning Impreza STI at Nurburgring 24-hour race

Subaru campaigning Impreza STI at Nurburgring 24-hour race originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hour24 hours24-hour24-hours24Hour24Hoursadac zurichAdacZurichimprezanurburgringstisubarusubaru impreza wrx stiSubaruImprezaWrxStiwrxFri, 17 Apr 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ken Block's newest creation leaks out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/video-ken-blocks-newest-creation-leaks-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/video-ken-blocks-newest-creation-leaks-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/video-ken-blocks-newest-creation-leaks-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to see Ken Block's WRX on tracks

The Rebel Alliance vehicle seen in above was apparently spotted at Guardsman Pass in Utah: a Subaru Impreza WRX rolling on a mighty set of treads wearing Ken Block's number and sponsorship paintjob. We have no idea how, why, or where he acquired such a vehicle, but we do know this much: Ken Block gets to have a lot more fun than the rest of us. Follow the jump to watch the vid.

Continue reading VIDEO: Ken Block's newest creation leaks out

VIDEO: Ken Block's newest creation leaks out originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etcimprezaken blockKenBlocksnowmobilesubarutank treadTankTreadvideoWRXFri, 03 Apr 2009 12:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Again: Toyota/Subaru RWD cars reportedly put on indefinite hold]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/dead-again-toyota-subaru-rwd-cars-reportedly-put-on-indefinite/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/dead-again-toyota-subaru-rwd-cars-reportedly-put-on-indefinite/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/dead-again-toyota-subaru-rwd-cars-reportedly-put-on-indefinite/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Like a schizophrenic love affair, the on-again, off-again Subaru/Toyota rear-wheel drive coupe is apparently off again. That morsel of sobering news comes via Detroit Free Press columnist Mark Phelan, who says that both automakers now admit that the project has been put on hold. The inexpensive 2+2 sports coupes had been the subject of much speculation and a seemingly infinite number of renderings, and in fact what looked to be an early prototype had been spotted last year.

Many enthusiasts were hoping that the car would signal Toyota's intent to return to the performance heritage of the AE86 Corolla, while Subaru stood to benefit from having a sportier-bodied, less expensive coupe than the WRX (although the car's RWD configuration was seemingly at odds with the company's all-wheel drive ethos).

In any case, the goal of a pair of 2011 sports coupes has evidently fallen by the wayside as yet another victim of the global financial crisis. Despite this development, Toyota maintains its small stake in Subaru, and the two automakers will continue joint production of the Camry in Subaru's Lafeyette, Indiana facility.

Toyobaru, we hardly knew ye.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Dead Again: Toyota/Subaru RWD cars reportedly put on indefinite hold originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AE86rear wheel driveRear-driveRearWheelDriveRWDRWD CoupeRwdCoupeSubaruSubatoyToyobaruToyotaWRXThu, 26 Feb 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Automatic-equipped Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line available in Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/automatic-equipped-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-a-line-available-in-ja/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/automatic-equipped-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-a-line-available-in-ja/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/automatic-equipped-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-a-line-available-in-ja/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line

Fed up with your Triptronic Boxster? Need more space to haul the kids and their baseball gear? Live in Japan? If you answered "yes" to any of the above, Subaru has a STI they'd like to show you. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line is aimed at the discerning enthusiast looking for a more relaxed ride from their performance hatch, someone who isn't interested in messing with the manual gearbox that comes standard on the top-spec Impreza.

The 300-horsepower, turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer four remains the same, equipped with Dual Active Valve Control System (AVCS) to boost low- and mid-range torque and a Tumble Generation Valve (TGV) that supposedly controls the stream of air into the intake for optimal combustion. Subaru is offering the A-Spec exclusively with a five-speed automatic gearbox featuring "Downshifting Blipping Control" and steering wheel-mounted paddles. A new body color - "Satin White Pearl" - is included, along with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and optional leather trim and front seat heaters. While we're pretty sure Subaru Japan's PR team made a mistake on the brake specs - listing the front discs at a whopping 17-inches and the rear rotors at 16-inches - if not, the A-Spec has enough stopping power to halt the rotation of the earth.

Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line

Continue reading Automatic-equipped Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line available in Japan

Automatic-equipped Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line available in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of the Subaru Travis Pastrana Impreza WRX STI

Tucked away in a corner of McCormick Place was this custom WRX STI built in as part of a cooperative effort between Subaru and Travis Pastrana's race team, Vermont SportsCar. The car commemorates Pastrana's third consecutive Rally America National Championship, and although a one-off, many of the parts on the car can be purchased through your local authorized Subaru dealer.

The exterior features custom yellow paint, a carbon fiber hood and rear spoiler, front chin spoiler, and a set of PIAA 2100 HID driving lights. Handling is improved thanks to an SPT strut tower brace, lower chassis brace, and BFGoodrich G-Force Super Sport A/S tires wrapped over satin black Work Evolution XD-9 wheels.

Under the hood, the 2.5-liter boxer engine gets an upgraded ECU and custom downpipe, while the interior now sports custom blue Alcantara seats with yellow piping, short-throw shifter, Kicker sound system and... an XBox 360. Full details in the press release after the break, and high-res photos from the show floor in the gallery below.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: Subaru Travis Pastrana Impreza WRX STI


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading Chicago 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Travis Pastrana Edition

Chicago 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Travis Pastrana Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicago 2009chicago auto showChicago2009ChicagoAutoShowPastranarallySubaruSubaru WRX STISubaruWrxStiTravis PastranaTravisPastranaWRCWRXFri, 13 Feb 2009 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Petter Solberg gets a Subaru boo boo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/24/video-petter-solberg-gets-a-subaru-boo-boo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/24/video-petter-solberg-gets-a-subaru-boo-boo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/24/video-petter-solberg-gets-a-subaru-boo-boo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump


We all have our embarrassing moments. Most, however, aren't quite as public as Petter Solberg's mishap last week at the Bettega Memorial Rallysprint in Bologna, Italy. The 2003 WRC champion was taking some parade laps and waving to the crowd when he decided it was a good idea to get on the roof of his car. He managed the task with relative ease, but quickly found that getting back into the car posed much more of a problem. With Subaru pulling out of WRC in 2009, let's hope this isn't our last memory of Solberg piloting a rally car. Watch the embedded video after jump.

[Source: YouTube via TheCarFanatic]

Continue reading VIDEO: Petter Solberg gets a Subaru boo boo

VIDEO: Petter Solberg gets a Subaru boo boo originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click any image for a high-res gallery

Even though our lust for Japan's forbidden fruit has been sated by three generations of the Subaru STI and Mitsubishi EVO - and now, the Nissan GT-R - one guilty pleasure is still out of reach. The Subaru Forester STI has always held a special place in our hearts, combining a healthy dose of practicality with a dash of rally-bred performance, and that's carried over to the Forester XTI concept. Packing the WRX STI's turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder putting out 315 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, a cat-back exhaust, reworked suspension, STI wheels and a deep red/black paint job, the Forester XTI is begging to go into production. Here's hoping Subaru wises up and gives it the green light.



Joining the Forester on the show stand is a five-door 2009 WRX tweaked by Subaru Performance Tuning (left) with a cat-back exhaust, short-throw shifter, OZ Botticelli III 19-inch wheels, a lower chassis brace and strut tower brace. The 2.5-liter four has gotten a 10-hp boost in output (from 265 to 275 hp) and an additional seven lb-ft of torque, and sitting beside that guy is the STI that's making its big screen debut in the next installment of the Fast and Furious franchise.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Subaru Forester XTI, SPT WRX, 4F4F STI

SEMA 2008: Subaru trots out Forester XTI concept and tweaked WRX originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fast and furious 4fast and furious fourFastAndFurious4FastAndFuriousFourforestersemasema 2008Sema2008stisubarusubaru forester xti conceptSubaruForesterXtiConceptwrxWed, 05 Nov 2008 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru releases JDM-only 20th Anniversary Edition Impreza WRX STI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/subaru-releases-jdm-only-20th-anniversary-edition-impreza-wrx-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/subaru-releases-jdm-only-20th-anniversary-edition-impreza-wrx-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/subaru-releases-jdm-only-20th-anniversary-edition-impreza-wrx-st/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click either image for a high-res gallery of the Impreza WRX STI 20th Ann.

Celebration and disappointment -- that's what the Subaru Impreza WRX STI 20th Anniversary edition brings to the party. Celebration because it marks two decades of low-mounted, boxer-powered, all-wheel-drive fun and disappointment because the Takumi concept we saw earlier this month - assumed to be a glimpse of the future Spec-C WRX - was just an early unveiling of this limited edition Impreza.

To make matters worse, the 20th Anniversary WRX doesn't get much in the way of modifications. The only substantive changes to the STI's dynamics come from a new set of coilovers with retuned springs and shocks to offer a more planted ride, along with thicker front and rear anti-roll bars and a set of 18-inch aluminum wheels to compliment the only available hue (white). Body mods are also kept to a minimum, with only a black lip spoiler and rear wing subtly proclaiming the STI's special status.

No special edition would be complete without the prerequisite badging, so in addition to leather Recaros with red stitching and a matching shift knob, a commemorative plaque on the center console and a new set of door sills are the only thing letting people know that the Impreza is one of the 300 limited edition examples. Oh, and there's a special red pouch for the key fob too.

Sales are beginning in Japan as you read this, carrying a price tag of 4,126,500 yen.

Gallery: 20th Anniversary Subaru Impreza WRX STI

Subaru releases JDM-only 20th Anniversary Edition Impreza WRX STI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2020th anniversary20thAnniversaryanniversaryimprezastisubaruSubaru Impreza WRX STISubaru Impreza WRX STI 20th anniversarySubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruImprezaWrxSti20thAnniversarywrxThu, 23 Oct 2008 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru Impreza WRX STI Takumi concept hints at future Spec-C]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-takumi-concept-hints-at-future-spec-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-takumi-concept-hints-at-future-spec-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/06/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-takumi-concept-hints-at-future-spec-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Our Parisian friends over at LeBlogAuto were on hand at the Motorsport Japan 2008 event in Tokyo this past weekend, where FHI unveiled an Impreza-based "concept" dubbed the Subaru WRX STI Takumi.

Featuring upgraded springs and shocks, revised suspension bits, lightweight 12-spoke wheels, undisclosed engine tweaks and a slightly reworked exterior, the Takumi foretells the future of the rumored Spec-C variant, due to hit the market sometime next year.

Subaru execs at the show remained mum on if when the Spec-C would debut, but the smart money is on the Tokyo Auto Salon this January.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Subaru WRX STI spec C


[Source: LeBlogAuto - Translated]

Subaru Impreza WRX STI Takumi concept hints at future Spec-C originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Subaru WRX

Despite being just one year since it was completely redesigned, the Subaru WRX is getting some big upgrades for 2009 including a more powerful engine with a larger turbo, new exterior enhancements and more go-fast hardware from its big brother, the STI. When we heard this news, we mentioned that buyers of the 2008 model might feel slighted. No might about it anymore, as Inside Line is reporting that the 2009 WRX will be priced almost identical to the 2008 model. The '09 WRX will reportedly start below $25k while the 2008 model starts at $24,995, including a $645 delivery charge. While a delivery charge might push the '09 model over $25k, that's a small price to pay for all the extras you're getting that includes a new 265-horsepower version of Subaru's turbocharged 2.5L boxer-four.

Gallery: 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX and 2.5GT


[Source: Inside Line]

Subaru holds the line on WRX pricing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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